Starting fields at hometown short tracks have long been considered as a proving ground for racers of varying talent levels. Some show their skills behind-the-wheel, while others demonstrate prowess behind-the-scenes. Stephane Lafrance fell into both categories.
While at the controls of his familiar No. 115 DIRTcar Modified, Lafrance scored multiple main event wins at a variety of venues, including Cornwall Motor Speedway, with 18 career main event wins at the local venue and the 2011 track championship. In the shop, his abilities as a fabricator crafted weekly equipment that pushed the limits as a designer. His uniquely-devised ‘Run What You Brung’ machines were unrivalled in both speed and creative ingenuity.
On Thursday, June 25th, the provincial motorsports community received the sad news that Stephane Lafrance of Saint-Albert, ON had passed away, at just 57 years-of-age.
In recent years, Lafrance had earned a solid reputation while operating Trick Race Parts and supplying body parts, panels and pieces for various DIRTcar Modified and Sportsman-Modified competitors. He also assisted racer and good friend Ryan Godown. All the while, a potential return to his racing roots was never far from his mind.
On Sunday, September 6th, Cornwall Motor Speedway will pay tribute to a racer who was a rival to many and friend to all with the running of the Stephane Lafrance Memorial, a 115-lap headliner for the DIRTcar 358 Modifieds. The marquee event will feature sponsored laps, each with a $115 payout funded by track supporters. The race winner will receive an $11,500 payday.
Also on the raceday line-up for the Fat Les’s Chip Stand Canadian Nationals will be DIRTcar Sportsman-Modifieds, Pro Stock, Mini Stock and Novice Sportsman. General admission gates open at 4:00 p.m., with racing at 6:00.
For complete event details, check www.cornwallspeedway.com or look for track information on your favourite social media platforms.
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